A Ukrainian athlete was banned for his helmet. How does the IOC enforce its rules on political statements?

Feb 13, 2026 - 12:00
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A Ukrainian athlete was banned for his helmet. How does the IOC enforce its rules on political statements?
A man holds a helmet

The Olympics have long been a platform for political posturing, with countries boycotting or being banned from sending athletes to Games over geopolitical conflicts. But the International Olympic Committee bars political demonstrations from podiums and competitions. What constitutes an inappropriate political demonstration, however, can be complicated.